Articulations and Movements

classification of articulations

based on movement

immoveable [synarthroses]

slightly moveable [amphiarthroses]

freely moveable [diarthroses]

based on structure

bony

synostoses

fibrous

sutures

fontanels

syndesmoses

gomphoses

cartilaginous

synchondroses

symphyses

synovial

structure

articular capsule

synovial membrane

synovial fluid

articular cartilage

ligaments

types

gliding

hinge [ginglymal]

pivot [trochoid]

condyloid [ellipsoid]

saddle

ball-and-socket

bursae

tendon sheaths

Joint Movements

flexion	extension
dorsiflexion	plantar flexion
abduction	adduction
protraction	retraction
elevation	depression
circumduction
opposition
lateral flexion
[axial] rotation
medial rotation	lateral rotation
a diagram clarifying rotation
pronation	supination
inversion	eversion
“supination” of foot	“pronation” of foot

Questions for thought
1.		Using a labeled diagram, present the structure of the synovial joint.
2.		Speculate on why the popliteal fossa of the knee faces posteriorly while the cubital fossa of elbow faces forward.
3.		Discuss why the radioulnar interosseous membrane should not be considered a syndesmosis like the distal tibiofibular joint.
4.		Discuss the movements possible at a triaxial joint, using either the hip or shoulder as your example.
5.		What is meant by the term “modified hinge joint”? Analyze fully at least two examples.
6.		Describe the movements at IP joints II-V in the hand. And yet in the thumb, these movements occur at the MP joint. How do they differ in the thumb?

Referenced sites
Other sites
- The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences presents all the joints and ligaments, organized by region; there are, additionally, descriptions and notes for each joint or ligament
- Descriptions of the movements within the foot have been clouded by orthotic, running-shoe, and sports medicine people.
  The footmaxx® Clinician’s Corner does an admirable job clarifying them.